Square Enix has confirmed plans to open a new studio based in Montreal, with the company’s first project being a new title in the Hitman franchise.
Rumors of a new studio opening alongside the existing Eidos Montreal can be traced back to March of this year.
The studio itself will open next year and will be headed by Square Enix London Studios’ Lee Singleton, creating 150 new jobs.
No details were given regarding the Hitman game however, aside from the fact it’ll be “a new premium quality game.”
Of course, it’s common knowledge that a separate Hitman title is already in development over at IO Interactive, which is due out in 2012 on PlayStation 3, PC and Xbox 360.
Elsewhere, Square also confirmed that Eidos Montreal – fresh from working on the critically acclaimed Deus Ex: Human Revolution – is expanding, creating a further 100 new jobs.
In addition to continuing its work on the Deus Ex franchise, the studio also has Thief 4 in the works and a new, “AAA project” up its sleeves.
Phil Rogers, CEO of Square Enix Europe, "We believe in creating studios where passion for our games and gaming runs throughout and Eidos-Montréal is testament to this vision.”
"The start up of a second studio brings a huge advantage to our business; we will nurture two separate studios with their own strengths, culture and appeal."